NEW GLASGOW, N.S. – It’s another tradition in a county that holds on tight to traditions: the Johnny Miles Marathon Running Events Weekend.
Race director Terry Curley expects about 1,500 people will take part this weekend in events such as the Kid’s Fun Run, the marathon, half-marathon and 5K and 10K events.
“I think we will certainly be on par with last year,” he said, adding weather this spring has not been kind to runners.
“People just haven’t been out running and training. It’s hard to get motivated when it’s wet and cold.”
That doesn’t seem to be a problem with a group of girls at Northumberland Regional High School who again this year have been training together and will run in the 10K and 5K events this Sunday, depending on their level.
“We wanted to get people – girls especially – to care more about their health,” said Grade 11 student Dayveen Earp.
“And basically, work together to become more active.”
Most of them had spent the winter training indoors, working on cardio, until the weather became more suited for road work.
“When the snow melted, we started running and running,” Earp said.
“It is a nice social thing, you can kind of relate to the people in the group. I love the social aspect because we all care for each other and all cheer each other on.”
One big advantage is they can inspire each other in a team-like environment.
“It’s a really good support group,” says Mikayla Morrison.
“I really feel like a lot of us wouldn’t be able to do this if it wasn’t for each other, and the helping hand we can give to each other. This group give us confidence that a lot of us wouldn’t have if we had to do it alone.”
Scotsburn’s Dave MacLennan, who has won the Johnny Miles Marathon a record 12 times, has been dealing with a foot injury and will forego the 44th running of the marathon, instead choosing to take part in the 5K.
The marathon will begin at 7 a.m. on Sunday morning, while the 5K and 10K runners will line up at 9 a.m.
Parents can register their children for the Kid’s Fun Run on the morning of event, and are asked to show at between 8:30-9:30 a.m. Saturday at the Pioneer Coal track and field facility in Stellarton.
